When using the new iPad 11 (A16) can I use either the Apple Pencil Generation 1 or the USB-C, or only the Generation 1? And if both are acceptable, which is the preferred by most people?
[Re-Titled by Moderator]
Original Title: Apple Pencil Gen 1 vs. USB-C
iPad, iPadOS 18
Both models of Apple Pencil are supported on the A16 iPad.
The usb-c is cheaper, but lacks some features like the pressure sensitivity.
if you want a cheaper pencil for writing and basic drawing, the USB-C Pencil is fine.
Of you need more artistic features like the sensitivity go for the First Generation Pencil.
Both the first generation and USB-C Apple Pencils can only be charged via direct connection. Neither can be charged wirelessly. As such, for your current iPad, you will be charging either Pencil using an appropriate USB cable/adapter arrangement.
From a practical perspective, the USB-C Pencil differs from the first generation Pencil in two key aspects:
1) The USB-C Pencil can be magnetically "docked" to the edge of a compatible iPad - whereas the first generation Pencil cannot be attached to the host iPad, for convenience, when it is not being used.
2) The USB-C Pencil does not support pressure sensitivity - whereas the first generation Pencil does offer this feature.
Ultimately, your choice of Pencil may be dictated by your personal preferences. For information, here is a feature comparison of all models of Apple Pencil (noting that only two are compatible with your iPad):
Thank you. Use it mostly for writing, clicking to move things in my budget software, or play a few games. I've had a Generation 1 that I used with my other iPad before leaving both in a rental car (and Avis hasn't found them yet). Loved it, but I know after reading some things that I can't charge the pencil on A16 like I did Gen 1. So, now to decide which would be more convenient in regard to charging.
Purple7122 wrote:
Thank you. Use it mostly for writing, clicking to move things in my budget software, or play a few games. I've had a Generation 1 that I used with my other iPad before leaving both in a rental car (and Avis hasn't found them yet). Loved it, but I know after reading some things that I can't charge the pencil on A16 like I did Gen 1. So, now to decide which would be more convenient in regard to charging.
They both charge similarly. Both use a cable to charge by plugging them into the iPad's USB-C port. The First Generation Pencil requires an adapter though. But outside of that they charge the same way.
Which is preferable between Apple Pencil Gen 1 and USB-C with iPad 11" (A16)?
